Over the winter months, or whenever your boat is out of the water for repairs or routine service and maintenance, the safety and security of your boat is resting on some very simple and basic devices known as boat stands.
These are essential pieces of equipment in any boatyard, marina, boat retailer, or for storage of your boat on your own property. Choosing stands that are well-made and designed to stabilize and secure the boat in position when out of the water is essential to prevent damage to the boat.
Consider the Configuration and Design
The most stable type of platform for boat stands is a triangular shape. The stands lean in slightly, allowing the center of gravity on the pad to press straight down into the frame. This prevents the boat from pushing in or out on the stand, which could result in the stand slipping out from position and allowing the weight of the boat to shift during storage.
The stand should have a full frame on the bottom, allowing for maximum weight distribution across the surface. Ideally, stands should be used areas of firmly packed soil or a hard surface such as concrete or asphalt. These stands should not be used in soft soil or gravel where the stands can slide.
Number of Stands
A common mistake in any type of boat storage situation is to use too few stands. Be sure to review the manufacturer’s recommendations for the distance along the keel. Sailboats and powerboats have different recommendations, but both are based on the length of the boat.
Additionally, boat stands for sailboats should include a specialized V-head stand for use on the bow. Swivel heads on the stands allow for the head to be placed flush against the keel, stabilizing and securing the boat in place.
